Blue Peter confirms Mwaka Mudenda as brand new presenter

Blue Peter has announced that a brand new presenter will be joining the current line-up, but the 39th presenter's series debut will be a little different to the rest.

Mwaka Mudenda – aka Mwaksy – has been confirmed as the CBBC show's new presenter and she'll be making her debut in Thursday's (May 14) episode.

The series typically introduces new presenters to the show live in the studio as they showcase their first major challenge – whether that's jumping out of a plane or swimming with sharks – but with the country still on lockdown, the Blue Peter team are currently presenting the show from their homes.

This means that Mwaksy's first Blue Peter challenge will be how to join her fellow presenters Lindsey Russell, Richie Driss and Henry the dog from her own home without actually getting to meet them in person.

"There is only one word to describe being the new Blue Peter presenter and that is mind-blowing!" Mwaksy said in a statement.

"Despite lockdown, I've felt so welcomed by the incredible behind-the-scenes team that help run and deliver such a wonderful show – and I already feel like a big part of the Blue Peter family.

"I'm so excited to begin my adventure, with all the fun challenges it has in store. The chance to be a part of such a well-loved programme that has such an inspiring and creative young audience is a real blessing."

Before joining the Blue Peter team, Mwaksy worked behind the scenes of the BBC Sports department as an assistant producer.

But, don't worry, Mwaksy will still have to take on her first Blue Peter challenge during her first show on Thursday as the new presenter will be tasked with breaking a world record – but she won't find out what that record is until the show itself.

"It's going to be an extraordinary launch for Mwaksy in extraordinary times, she has had to do her first show – and her first Blue Peter presenter challenge – from her home, but I have been blown away by her positivity, her warmth, her humour and her willingness to give things a go so she’ll fit perfectly with the Blue Peter family," Blue Peter editor Ellen Evans said in a statement.

Blue Peter airs live on Thursdays at 5.30pm on CBBC and BBC iPlayer.

The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it's possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice, visit the World Health Organisation. If you're in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

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